Gratitude

We all know to say thank you for things you receive or things people do for you but do you show gratitude throughout your day? Gratitude is one of the major boosts for happiness, but many may not know how to fully increase their gratitude beyond just being thankful. Here are five ways to boost your gratitude, which will in turn amplify your happiness exponentially.

1.     Commit random acts of kindness. We all see people who look like they need a little help. The woman with a toddler in one hand and pushing a stroller with the other trying to get her groceries to her car in one piece. So many people pass by, thinking that they don’t want to interfere. One way to increase gratitude is by helping those that need a little help.

2.     Accentuate the positive. So many of us wake up and begrudgingly go to work, get annoyed at the copier jamming, and drive home through traffic. The best thing you can do in these not so perky times is to reframe how you see it. You are in control of how this scene plays out. Turn it into waking up in a home that your job affords you, enjoying the break from your desk by having to fiddle with the copier, and having extra time to drive home and clear your mind or listen to your favorite radio show. There is always a silver lining. Focus on it, magnify it, and embrace it as your reality.

3.     Create a reminder of gratitude. A friend of mine kept a rock in her pocket and each time she would touch it or become aware of it she would think of what she was grateful for in that moment. Being fully aware of the most positive things can bring absolute joy to ones life. It is easy to forget to be gracious through the hustle and bustle of life. Let a little symbol of gratitude keep you on track.

4.     Put it in black and white. Get a shoebox, jar, vase, or any container suitable for holding paper. Each day write an affirmation, goal, strength, or gratitude on the paper. Fold it up, and put it in the container. If at any time during the week you need a pick-me-up, distraction, or something to be thankful for, take one out and read it. Read it two or three times if needed and decide what you will do with it. If it is a goal, work on it. If it is a strength, try to accentuate it for a whole 24 hours.

5.     Volunteer. Even if it is once a month, give your time to an organization or group that needs it. Never underestimate your power to create happiness and gratitude in others. You will see quickly how you can make a big difference and you will notice the gratitude growing in others.